Taipan Taipan Slash

[ram2jeep]

I have typically purchased all FX rifles besides my Texan and Edgun L. I was rebuilding another regulator for my MK 2 and then working on the valve on my Panthera when I read about the Slash.
I called Tony at Talon Tunes and he convinced me to try the Taipan and that I would love it. I received it yesterday in .22 and initial thoughts are outstanding. You do not need a moderator on this in my configuration: can’t speak on other caliber’s. Build quality is such that when you pick up the rifle you realize this is top tier.
I haven’t run the bottle down to see shot count as of yet. Magazine is wonderful. Easy to load and shoot. With both slugs and pellets neither had problems finding their mark. I shoot 50 to 90 yards in my back yard, mostly woods.
Semiautomatic works wonderfully and I love not having to move my hand to load another pellet. More to come on this I am sure.

 

[MACTEN]

I have typically purchased all FX rifles besides my Texan and Edgun L. I was rebuilding another regulator for my MK 2 and then working on the valve on my Panthera when I read about the Slash.
I called Tony at Talon Tunes and he convinced me to try the Taipan and that I would love it. I received it yesterday in .22 and initial thoughts are outstanding. You do not need a moderator on this in my configuration: can’t speak on other caliber’s. Build quality is such that when you pick up the rifle you realize this is top tier.
I haven’t run the bottle down to see shot count as of yet. Magazine is wonderful. Easy to load and shoot. With both slugs and pellets neither had problems finding their mark. I shoot 50 to 90 yards in my back yard, mostly woods.
Semiautomatic works wonderfully and I love not having to move my hand to load another pellet. More to come on this I am sure.

Which version? barrel length tactical, standard etc. Good to see you're enjoying it so far. You're right about build quality... not too many are close out there in that regard.

 

[ram2jeep]

I have the Tactical .22 550mm. And I love it

 

[Joes41]

I've been looking at these and they look awesome.

 

[jpiperson2002]

My .25 Slash Tactical with the 420 mm barrel is impressive for build quality. The removable pellet and slug magazines are well designed and machined, and as indicated above it has a quiet voice compared to other airguns as similar power levels. There are a few other discussion threads on the Slash and a recent one on Slash Tuning includes some performance results from a few new owners.

There is currently a Slash up for sale in the Classifieds from someone who bought one recently just to test it and see how it compared to his other semi-auto airguns.

JP

 

[airman_o]

I have the Tactical .22 550mm. And I love it

I love the tactical handguard. But one think I'm wondering: is the clearance from the barrel wide enough so you can properly use the m-lok slots for mounting i.e. a picatinny rail? Or is is more for the looks?
In my experience it quickly gets very tight with the m-lok screws (almost) touching the barrel, and that's not good for accuracy.

 

[DonEnzone]

As excited as I am for the Slash, something just feels "off" about the whole deal. The delays, the .30 cal version being pushed back, the fact that Taipan suddenly turned off the comments on their recent videos... etc.

It's also a bit strange how few videos of it exist on Youtube. Usually these airgun channels are jumping at the opportunity to be the first to review a new high-end rifle. I keep hearing that "reviews are coming very soon", and then weeks go by without hearing anything. So far, Nate is the only 3rd party who has a review up.

I'm starting to suspect that some kind of design flaw slipped through, and Taipan are trying to save face. They recently posted a video on how to fix cycling issues, and from what I understand they added a new adjustment screw to the receiver so you can fine-tune the indexing system. Projectile weight seems to play a role in this.

Maybe Im worrying about nothing but... If some unforseen problem came up, fine... mistakes happen. But then why not just be transparent about it? Why turn off your comment section?

 

[jpiperson2002]

I love the tactical handguard. But one think I'm wondering: is the clearance from the barrel wide enough so you can properly use the m-lok slots for mounting i.e. a picatinny rail? Or is is more for the looks?
In my experience it quickly gets very tight with the m-lok screws (almost) touching the barrel, and that's not good for accuracy.

"

is the clearance from the barrel wide enough so you can properly use the m-lok slots for mounting i.e. a picatinny rail?

Yes, of course the M-Lok slots are functional. This is a professionally designed airgun from a well respected manufacturer which has arguably produced some of the best airguns in the world.

 

[ram2jeep]

As excited as I am for Slash, something just feels "off" about the whole deal. The delays, the .30 cal version being pushed back, the fact that Taipan suddenly turned off the comments on their recent videos, the stories I've heard about cycling issues on some rifles... etc.

It's also a bit strange how few videos of it exist on Youtube. Usually these airgun channels are jumping at the opportunity to be the first to review a new high-end rifle. I keep hearing that "reviews are coming very soon", and then weeks go by without hearing anything. So far, Nate is the only 3rd party who has a review up.

I'm starting to suspect that some kind of design flaw slipped through, and Taipan are trying to save face. They recently posted a video on how to fix the cycling issues, and from what I understand they had to add a new adjustment screw to the receiver so you can fix the indexing issue. If they had to call back some of their stock to add that new adjustment screw, fine... mistakes happen. But I don't understand why they can't just be transparent about all this.

I’m not sure and haven’t heard or seen any discussion on issues besides the cycling, when using different weight slugs/pellets. I do like how the video shows how simplistic it is to adjust the index as well as to adjusting the regulator for more or less power.
So is it, as you seem to know, an issue? Can you point me in the right direction so I can see the problems you mentioned?
And as far as pushing a specific caliber back is not concerning to me as we have seen more than one manufacturer state a release date to have the rifle released a year later. Time will tell if there are more problems but the quick release of videos from Taipan giving direction shows concern and not trying to hide that different weights can cause indexing issues.
I also don’t put any weight on reviews because they are done by individuals who have different wants, needs and expectations. Yes, I may watch some of the videos but it is more to see how the rifle functions. Example being, I heard the rifle was quiet and extremely backyard friendly; whose backyard and quiet is subjective.
Once I setup the rifle and started to shoot is when I knew it was extremely quiet and also accurate to my standard.
I definitely appreciate the additional information and would love to see your sources for the issues you stated.

 

[MACTEN]

I love the tactical handguard. But one think I'm wondering: is the clearance from the barrel wide enough so you can properly use the m-lok slots for mounting i.e. a picatinny rail? Or is is more for the looks?
In my experience it quickly gets very tight with the m-lok screws (almost) touching the barrel, and that's not good for accuracy.

Most of the screws that come with attachments are 12mm for m-lok . You need to get 10mm.

 

[DonEnzone]

I’m not sure and haven’t heard or seen any discussion on issues besides the cycling, when using different weight slugs/pellets. I do like how the video shows how simplistic it is to adjust the index as well as to adjusting the regulator for more or less power.
So is it, as you seem to know, an issue? Can you point me in the right direction so I can see the problems you mentioned?
And as far as pushing a specific caliber back is not concerning to me as we have seen more than one manufacturer state a release date to have the rifle released a year later. Time will tell if there are more problems but the quick release of videos from Taipan giving direction shows concern and not trying to hide that different weights can cause indexing issues.
I also don’t put any weight on reviews because they are done by individuals who have different wants, needs and expectations. Yes, I may watch some of the videos but it is more to see how the rifle functions. Example being, I heard the rifle was quiet and extremely backyard friendly; whose backyard and quiet is subjective.
Once I setup the rifle and started to shoot is when I knew it was extremely quiet and also accurate to my standard.
I definitely appreciate the additional information and would love to see your sources for the issues you stated.

I only pointed out one issue, not multiple. Which is a potential problem with the indexing. The source is my local importer who is in direct contact with Taipan. They said they heard reports of indexing issues on some early models, and on sub-12 footpound versions. Again, ammo weight seems to play a role in this. Hence why they likely added that adjustment screw so you can tweak the sensitivity of the indexing system.

Im not saying this is some kind of big cover-up. But it would explain the delays, and the overal lack of reviews despite the fact that the gun has been out for a couple of weeks now.

 

[ram2jeep]

I only pointed out one issue, not multiple. Which is a potential problem with the indexing. The source is my local importer who is in direct contact with Taipan. They said they heard reports of indexing issues on some early models, and on sub-12 footpound versions. Again, ammo weight seems to play a role in this. Hence why they likely added that adjustment screw so you can tweak the sensitivity of the indexing system.

Im not saying this is some kind of big cover-up. But it would explain the delays, and the overal lack of reviews despite the fact that the gun has been out for a couple of weeks now.

Delays, turning off comments, indexing and lack of reviews are multiple not singular and I can understand your misgivings because of how the industry is.
I have seen a few videos introducing the Slash but, for me, I don’t rely on reviews from the majority of YouTube personalities. Most of those reviews are always shining and the best thing ever. We each have different needs and preferences for our rifles.
So, in your opinion, if a rifle doesn’t have multiple reviews, after a month or so, there is an issue with the rifle? I have seen multiple manufacturers state a release date for a rifle to see the rifle come out a year later.
I can remember waiting for the FX Impact .357 for over a year. The non .357’s were out and the .357 released shortly before the new MK III dropped.
From my understanding the folks over at Taipan respond/reply to questions rather quickly. Have you tried to reach out and ask why the delay in the .30?, since we really don’t know. Since I wasn’t looking for a .30 it wasn’t something that concerned me.
My post wasn’t about possible delays for other calibers but just in my initial, hands on, experience with the 550mm .22, not about anything else. I will have more data and results in the future after using the rifle more. I appreciate your input though and it gives me and area to keep an eye on.

 

[bernieorosz]

As excited as I am for the Slash, something just feels "off" about the whole deal. The delays, the .30 cal version being pushed back, the fact that Taipan suddenly turned off the comments on their recent videos... etc.

It's also a bit strange how few videos of it exist on Youtube. Usually these airgun channels are jumping at the opportunity to be the first to review a new high-end rifle. I keep hearing that "reviews are coming very soon", and then weeks go by without hearing anything. So far, Nate is the only 3rd party who has a review up.

I'm starting to suspect that some kind of design flaw slipped through, and Taipan are trying to save face. They recently posted a video on how to fix cycling issues, and from what I understand they added a new adjustment screw to the receiver so you can fine-tune the indexing system. Projectile weight seems to play a role in this.

Maybe Im worrying about nothing but... If some unforseen problem came up, fine... mistakes happen. But then why not just be transparent about it? Why turn off your comment section?

My first Slash Tactical Compact .22 had a 'indexing/cycling issue' when I switched from heavier to lighter pellets. I contacted Taipan, and they sent me some 'how to' videos. I promptly made things worse .

Tony at Talon Airguns understood my frustration, and sent me another new Slash Tactical Compact .22. This replacement Slash has been flawless. With the 25's, I'm getting more regulated shots per fill (58), more power (50 fpe), and it's quieter than my first Slash, so no need for moderator.

Think about what I just said.... A compact lightweight .22 semi-auto that gets 58 shots per fill, at 50 fpe and needs no moderator!!

As far as the Taipan Indexing Video where they show how to adjust air flow for indexing, based on pellet weight, I don't know why comments were turned off.

But, that feature is also probably why my Slash is quieter as less air is being used for indexing/cycling. Plus, now I know how to change the air flow if I get another indexing issue.

 

[DonEnzone]

"So, in your opinion, if a rifle doesn’t have multiple reviews, after a month or so, there is an issue with the rifle"

I didn't say that. I told you that my local retailer said they were having some issues on some of the rifles.

My first Slash Tactical Compact .22 had a 'indexing/cycling issue' when I switched from heavier to lighter pellets. I contacted Taipan, and they sent me some 'how to' videos. I promptly made things worse .

Tony at Talon Airguns understood my frustration, and sent me another new Slash Tactical Compact .22. This replacement Slash has been flawless. With the 25's, I'm getting more regulated shots per fill (58), more power (50 fpe), and it's quieter than my first Slash, so no need for moderator.

Think about what I just said.... A compact lightweight .22 semi-auto that gets 58 shots per fill, at 50 fpe and needs no moderator!!

As far as the Taipan Indexing Video where they show how to adjust air flow for indexing, based on pellet weight, I don't know why comments were turned off.

But, that feature is also probably why my Slash is quieter as less air is being used for indexing/cycling. Plus, now I know how to change the air flow if I get another indexing issue.

Glad to hear that you managed to get a working Slash. When you buy a product in this price range I would expect nothing less!

 

[bernieorosz]

I didn't say that. I told you that my local retailer said they were having some issues on some of the rifles.

Glad to hear that you managed to get a working Slash. When you buy a product in this price range I would expect nothing less!

As far as I know, the only one who *didn't* have a 'working Slash' was me... and that was my own fault as It 'was' working when I received it.

 

[SigG]

Hi All,

My Slash Tactical Long .22 has finally arrived here in the Netherlands. The wait was longer than expected, but worth it.

A few people have raised concerns about delays, indexing, and the lack of open comments at times. It’s important to remember that Taipan is not a massive manufacturer like FX. Everything—from engineering and production to (most likely) marketing—is handled in-house. That inevitably takes more time, and to me that’s understandable.

Another factor is language. English isn’t Taipan’s native tongue (Slovakian), and since they’re doing almost everything themselves, I’d rather see them focus on clear instructional videos and product development than spend energy fielding endless off-topic questions. For what it’s worth, I’ve contacted Taipan by email several times, and their replies were always quick, clear, and to the point—despite the language barrier.

As for distribution: the first batch of Slashes went to the US, and now Europe and the Middle East are starting to see theirs. I expect more YouTube reviews will appear soon, though I’m not a content creator myself.

Indexing & Setup

The early indexing concerns don’t seem relevant anymore. In my view, the Slash was designed as a slug rifle from the beginning, which means it needs to be run at higher velocities. Trying to push it at very low power levels (e.g. 12 fpe) may have caused issues at first, but Taipan addressed this quickly with proper engineering and production adjustments. That takes time, but it shows commitment.


First Impressions on the Range

• Build: Feels very solid and well-balanced

• Noise: Extremely quiet, even without a suppressor

• Efficiency: Good shot count

• Accuracy: Today I shot a 1.5” spinner at 105 m (115 yards) and hit 22 out of 24 shots in mild wind (gusts 15mph). I don’t consider myself an expert marksman, so I was very impressed.

I used JSB KO MKII .216 slugs - 965 fps. They don’t fit in the slug magazine (5.52mm)but work fine in the pellet magazine (5.54mm).


Conclusion
The Slash feels like a purpose-built slug rifle that delivers on performance. The build quality, quiet operation, and accuracy left a strong first impression. Given Taipan’s small-scale, in-house approach, the delays and communication style make sense—and in my experience, their direct support is fast and professional.

If questions, shoot …
Tomorrow, I will tune my Slash further and get more rounds in.
Good night.